NSA Asks Public To Help Defend Its Image

National Security Agency director Gen. Keith Alexander pleaded Wednesday for the help of the "American people" to improve perception about the agency's surveillance programs, the Hill reported.

“We need your help. The American people have to weigh in and help us get the tools we need to defend this country,” Alexander said in a speech to the National Press Club, according to the Hill.

Former Obama administration cybersecurity official Chris Finan told the Hill that the administration has begun aggressively defending the NSA since Edward Snowden leaked a flurry of revelations about its programs earlier this year.

“Initially, they took a more reactive approach and would only respond when directly asked things,” Finan said. “And now, we’re seeing the beginning of them being more proactive in explaining and justifying [the programs.]”